While Santa Claus is often depicted flying across the night sky on Christmas Eve, a team of archaeologists may have unearthed a sarcophagus containing the remains of the saint whose generous spirit is still celebrated in the modern world more than 1,600 years later.
“We believe that this is the first time that we have in situ (original location) Encounter with sarcophagus.
The discovery was made at St. Nicholas Church in the Demre district of Antalya, Turkey, as part of excavations initiated by Turkey’s Ministry of Culture and Tourism.
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The sarcophagus was discovered in a two-story outbuilding of the church, which is believed to be the original burial place of St. Nicholas, the fourth-century bishop who lived in the ancient city of Milna.
During an excavation in Türkiye, a sarcophagus was discovered that is believed to be the burial place of Saint Nicholas. (Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye)
“While drilling holes inside the structure, we unexpectedly came across a sarcophagus,” Fundik said.
“We are working in this 20-meter-long, two-storey building that borders the church courtyard from the south. The piece belongs to a group of undecorated sarcophagi, made of local stone and with a slightly higher barrel-shaped roof. “
Fundik said there was a handle on the lid, and the underground part of the roughly 2-meter-long sarcophagus was estimated to be 1.5-2 meters high.
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Fundik added: “Based on preliminary assessments, its similarity to sarcophagus types from the region is striking.”
The sarcophagus bears a striking resemblance to those used in the fourth century. (Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye)
She explained to Turkish news agency A News that the exact location of St. Nicholas’s burial remains uncertain.
“Some historical sources mention that Saint Nicholas was buried near the shrine in the city of Myra,” Fundik told La Stampa.
“The discovery of a sarcophagus near the church believed to be the resting place of St. Nicholas may indicate that this site may indeed be the holy place in question. We can say that we have found archaeological evidence corroborating historical sources regarding the location of St. Nicholas’ tomb City’s holy place.
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Before the team reached the sarcophagus, they discovered other interesting artifacts.
The sarcophagus was found in a two-story building next to the church, believed to be the burial place of St. Nicholas. (Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye)
“In addition, during drilling, numerous fragments of clay oil lamps and animal bones were unearthed before reaching the sarcophagus,” Fundik said.
Saint Nicholas, known for his acts of generosity, was born in the third-century Greek village of Patara, on what is now the southern coast of Türkiye.
It is said that his wealthy parents died when he was young and he used his inheritance to help those in need and suffering, especially children.
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He served as Bishop of Myra and died in 343 AD.
The Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye believes its team may have discovered a sarcophagus belonging to Saint Nicholas. (iStock | Ministry of Culture and Tourism of the Republic of Türkiye)
About 200 years after his death, his remains were transferred to the Church of St. Nicholas, which was built in his honor.
Fundick said her team looks forward to gathering more information as the excavation continues.
“We are very excited that a sarcophagus has been unearthed very close to the church and is believed to contain the tomb of Saint Nicholas,” Fundik said.
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“As part of this programme, we will be delighted to complete the excavation and restoration of the area where the sarcophagus is located and contribute to our country’s tourism industry.”
